I am going to a wedding in Traverse City, Michigan, this weekend. I will have probably only one day for photography and plan to bring my 4x5. Believe it or not, I used to surf on the Great Lakes, and I would love to find a place with good waves (just to photograph this time), bluffs, beach, etc., that would be accessible, not too far from where I am, and photogenic. Any locals out there?

Don

A few ideas. I go to Traverse City in winter for X-C skiing but have also been there in summer.

West of Traverse City is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Lots of sand and bluffs. Nice area

North of Trasverse City is the penninsula - At far end is a Old Mission Light House. Its not a great drive, nor super scenic, but you might find something to photograph. Lots of Cherry farms.

On the Michigan west coast, from Sleeping Bear Dunes up to Leland is another option for you to consider. I dont recall much of this area as its been awhile since I was there.

Check with the Michian Tourist Bureau.



Bruce

I spent a couple of summers at the Interlochen National Music Camp near Traverse City many years ago as a high school student, and as the name suggests, it's between two lakes and a very beautiful setting. Also lots of fine music happening there over the summer, but I don't think the season has quite started yet.

Sleeping Bear Dunes if you get out before the crowds do.
Nordhouse dunes. Silver Lake dunes area can bee pretty nice for inland stuff.

vinny

I second the suggestion for Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore for dune bluffs and beach. If you have time, work your way north through Leland and Northport, and up to the very point of the Leelanau Peninsula. It will be worth the drive.

Thanks folks. I DID make it to the Sleeping Bear Park, if not the dunes. I was really pressed for time, unfortunately, but I really like the region. I intend to go back sometime soon, specifically for photography. I very much appreciate the suggestions.